There’s been lots of speculation over the future of Xabi Alonso and some of the more trustworthy journalists, including The Times bound Tony Barrett, have come out and said that it’s when and not if Xabi will be heading for Madrid. Empire of the Kop believe that the only reason Xabi is still a Liverpool player is due to a clause in his contract.
When Xabi Alonso signed from Real Sociedad for £10 million a clause was put in the Spaniards Anfield contract that if he was to be sold on Sociedad would be entitled to a percentage of his sell-on fee. This contract clause is believed to expire in late mid to late July with some sources quoting either the 17th or 18th of the month.
Now, if this is true then it is more than likely Liverpool will be holding out to ensure they take 100% of the transfer fee which is speculated to be no less than £30m which may include Madrid youngster Negredo.
I really hope it isn’t true, however when credible writers like Tony Barrett are confirming it you have to worry.
M.Owen
michael@empireofthekop.com